Voucher tecnológico: apoio do governo para inclusão digital

In Brazil, the digital divide is not just a statistic; it is a stark reality that affects millions of lives, holding back education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The government is now spearheading initiatives to bridge this gap, offering hope through programs that act as practical vouchers for connectivity and digital empowerment.

This article explores how technological vouchers, backed by significant investments, are transforming access to technology and fostering inclusion across the nation.

The journey begins with understanding the scale of the problem, which is immense and deeply rooted in socioeconomic disparities.

The Stark Reality of Digital Exclusion

Digital exclusion in Brazil is a multifaceted issue, with millions still disconnected from the online world.

Recent data paints a concerning picture of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

According to audits and studies, approximately 20 million Brazilians lack internet access, primarily in lower-income households.

This number highlights the urgent need for intervention to ensure no one is left behind in the digital age.

Key statistics reveal the depth of this divide:

• 20 million people without internet: The TCU reports that 12 million homes, totaling 20 million individuals, mostly from classes D and E, are excluded due to high costs, lack of skills, or disinterest.
• 29 million disconnected recently: The TIC Domicílios survey shows 159 million users, but 29 million remain offline, with disparities between urban and rural areas, and age groups.
• Historical stagnation post-pandemic: Data from IBGE and UNESCO indicates slow progress, with over half of the population having never used a computer in some pre-2020 estimates.

These figures underscore the critical necessity for targeted support, making government action not just beneficial but essential.

Government Programs as Practical Vouchers

In response, the Brazilian government has launched several programs that function as de facto technological vouchers, providing direct support to those in need.

These initiatives aim to democratize access by subsidizing costs and enhancing digital literacy.

The Internet Brasil program stands out as a prime example, offering free chips with data to low-income students.

Managed by the Ministry of Communications and Education, it has already impacted thousands, with high satisfaction rates among participants.

Details of this and other key programs include:

• Internet Brasil: Provides 20 GB monthly chips for pedagogical use to students from CadÚnico families, with 159,000 beneficiaries in 2024 across multiple states.
• SUS Digital and Agora Tem Especialistas: Focus on health digitalization through innovative solutions, requiring technical capacity and compliance with data protection laws.
• Transformation of Digital State Services: Aims for 90% digital public services, with hybrid models to include all citizens, especially in underserved areas.

These efforts demonstrate a commitment to using technology as a tool for social equity, paving the way for broader voucher systems.

Specific Voucher Proposals and Initiatives

Beyond existing programs, legislative proposals are emerging to formalize technological vouchers as a dedicated support mechanism.

These initiatives target specific regions and sectors, aiming to address unique challenges in digital inclusion.

For instance, a bill for vouchers in the Amazon region is under analysis in the Chamber of Deputies, focusing on financial benefits for connectivity.

Other proposals include vouchers in circular economies and tax incentives for IT equipment, all scheduled for implementation by 2026.

Key proposals to watch include:

• Voucher proposal for the Amazon: A regional benefit to boost digital access in remote areas, with values set by the federal government.
• Circular economy vouchers: Part of a broader plan with credit lines and fiscal incentives for businesses, aligned with the National Investment Program 2030.
• Redata incentives: Limited tax breaks for IT equipment like servers and GPUs, starting in 2026, to spur technological adoption.

These legislative moves signal a growing recognition of vouchers as a viable strategy for inclusive growth.

Financing Innovation: A Billion-Dollar Commitment

To support these voucher initiatives and broader digitalization, the government is channeling substantial financial resources into innovation and infrastructure.

Programs like those from BNDES and Finep represent historic investments in technology, with conditions designed to be accessible and impactful.

This table summarizes key financing programs and their focus areas:

These investments are crucial for enabling the infrastructure needed to make vouchers effective, ensuring that support translates into tangible benefits.

Additionally, other financing avenues include:

• FAT for Innovation: Approved criteria for BNDES financing with TR rates, under Law 14.592.
• Announcements and availability: Direct credit is already accessible, with indirect options to follow, highlighting immediate action.

Such financial backing underscores the government's resolve to foster a digitally inclusive society.

Challenges and the Road to 2026

Despite progress, significant challenges remain in achieving universal digital inclusion through voucher systems.

Inequalities persist, particularly in rural versus urban areas and across age and income groups, requiring sustained effort and innovation.

The path to 2026 is set with ambitious goals, including the growth of AI and data centers, supported by fiscal incentives.

Key challenges and perspectives include:

• Persistent inequalities: Disparities in access to devices and training, with rural and elderly populations most affected.
• Need for comprehensive policies: The TCU calls for a National Digital Inclusion Plan to address governance gaps and ensure quality connectivity.
• Technological acceleration: Expectations for rapid advancements in 2026, driven by government priorities in neo-industrialization and job creation.

Actions underway, such as the New PAC investments and digital transformation initiatives, offer hope for overcoming these hurdles.

By focusing on inclusive growth and social demands, the government aims to create a future where digital access is a right, not a privilege.

In conclusion, technological vouchers represent a powerful tool in Brazil's fight against digital exclusion.

With robust government support, from practical programs to billion-dollar investments, the vision of a connected nation is within reach.

As we move towards 2026, continued advocacy and implementation will be key to ensuring that every Brazilian can benefit from the digital revolution.